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2026 Educational Programs and Operations Levy

Federal Way Public Schools is asking voters to renew the existing community-approved Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy, which expires in December 2026.

This is not a new tax. It is funding that has been continuously supported in our community since 1980 and currently represents 10% of the district's overall budget, funding day-to-day operations. 

If approved, this measure would continue to provide local funding to bridge the gap between what the state provides and what is actually needed to run a school district. This would allow the district to continue funding essential programs, services, and staff that support scholar academics, safety, and well-being across FWPS schools. 

Please check out our Frequently Asked Questions Page and our School Levy Voter Pamphlet Statement Committee Application process if you are interested in providing a Pro or Con statement. 

 

The EP&O Levy Fills The Funding Gap

The EP&O Levy helps maintain programs, services, staffing, and daily operations that are unfunded or not fully funded by the state.

 
FWPS Funding Sources:
 State: 77% (based on student enrollment)
 Federal: 8% (academic and support programs)
 Other: 5: (grants)
 Local Levy: 10% (all dollars are local and stay local)

 

What The Levy Funds

Three young individuals, wearing protective gear, appear to be engaged in a hands-on activity or experiment in a laboratory or educational setting, with various scientific equipment and tools visible in the background.

Academics

The EP&O Levy funds academic opportunities to ensure scholars can access high-quality, rigorous learning that will prepare them for the future. including:
  • Advanced Programs, including Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Cambridge programs
  • STEAM Programs
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE), including over 70 unique courses
  • College and Career Readiness, including college and career preparation opportunities, financial aid events, etc.
  • Updated Curriculum
  • Staff Professional Development

Activities

The EP&O Levy funds enrichment activities to support the whole child, including:
  • Art
  • Music
  • Theater
  • Pep and Marching Band
  • Theater Productions
  • 100% Athletics, including high school and middle school competitive sports, sixth-grade flag football, Unified sports, and no-cut Intramural basketball, soccer, and volleyball teams
A police officer standing with three young students, one of whom appears to be holding a flower, against a vibrant purple background.

Staffing

The EP&O Levy funds staff who ensure scholars have the support they need to thrive, including:

  • Classroom Support, including Teachers, Paraeducators, and Guest Staff
  • Special Education, including Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Physical Therapists, and Audiologists
  • Health and Safety, including Nurses, Counselors, Mental Health staff, Custodians, and Safety and Security staff
A woman in casual clothing is standing at a kitchen counter, arranging baked goods on a wire rack against a bright yellow background.

Operations

The EP&O Levy funds day-to-day services that keep our schools running, including:

  • Transportation
  • Nutrition Services
  • Utilities
  • Facilities Maintenance

A Closer Look at How Levy Funding Supports Students

Learn how EP&O Levy funding helps provide Federal Way Public School students with programs, services, and supports that promote student success.

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Tax Information

Tax amount to be collected

The total amount collected will not increase beyond what voters approve on February 10, 2026, even if home values rise.

ℹ Tax rates are based on every $1,000 of assessed property value. 

Year
EP&O Renewal Total Collection
Estimated Tax Rate
2027 $71,408,000 $2.50
2028 $74,978,000 $2.50
2029 $78,727,000 $2.50
2030 $82,663,000 $2.50

 

Tax Rate History and estimates

The chart below shows the total school district tax rate over time and how different voter-approved measures contribute to that total.

 

 School Construction Bond

 Tech Levy

 Federal Way HS Capital Levy

 EP&O Levy